Life Story

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Edgar was born in Colac in 1869, the son of Charles Matthew Cuttriss and Annie Cuttriss, née Flanagan. He lived for only ten months, passing away in 1870 after months of illness.

 

Edgar’s story is part of a larger family journey—one marked by both hardship and resilience. His father, Charles, arrived in Australia in 1844 as a convict, yet went on to become a skilled naturalist and taxidermist. He worked with birds and native animals, and his craftsmanship was of such quality that it was considered for exhibition in London— a remarkable achievement in his lifetime.

 

Edgar’s mother, Annie, was an Irish widow when she married Charles in 1862. She was known as a respectable woman, but life placed heavy demands upon her. Together, they had eight children. Tragically, not all survived infancy.

 

Edgar’s sister, Annie Blanche, also died as a baby, and in later years, several of the surviving children were placed into care, as their parents struggled to provide the basic necessities of life. These were difficult times, without the supports we know today.

 

This was a family doing its best under great strain. Despite these beginnings, many of Edgar’s brothers and sisters went on to live full and meaningful lives— a quiet legacy of endurance.

 

Today, we return to Edgar. A small life, deeply loved, and part of this community’s story. Though he was here for only a short time, he is remembered.

 

Research by Kerrie Ryan

Story by Kerrie Ryan

Narrated by Tyson Graham

© 2026 Colac & District Family History Group Inc. 
All rights reserved. 

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Life stories have been researched and compiled by the Colac & District Family History Group Inc. and its independent contributors. This material must not be copied or reproduced without permission. AI tools have been used to assist. 

 

For more information, please contact the Colac & District Family History Group Inc.